As a little girl I looked up to you
    walking in your steps was all that I knew.
The games we played, the times we've shared
    you showed in everything, the way you've cared.

The older I got, the more I knew
    the joy it was to be with you.
You were always around for me
    and always loved me unconditionally.

You often showed me right from wrong
    and taught me to be meek and strong.
Your patience and your gentle care
    was everlasting and always there.

A young lady I soon grew up to be
    and academics I accomplished successfully.
With all your love and all your praise
    a successful woman you surely did raise.

Dad, I just wanted to say
    how much I love you in every way.
You'll always be the king of my heart
    because you were my love from the very first start.

My Hero
by Debbie Hinton Young

As I ponder the love that I saw in his eyes,
A Godly love, given without compromise....
I recall many times that he stood by my side,
And prodded me on with great vigor and pride.

His voice ever confident, firm and yet fair,
Always speaking with patience, tenderness and care.
The power and might of his hands was so sure,
I knew there was nothing we couldn't endure.

It's true, a few others provided insight,
Yet, he laid the foundation that kept me upright.
He's the grandest of men to have lived on this earth,
Although he's not royal by stature or birth.

He's a man of great dignity, honor and strength.
His merits are noble, and of admirable length.
He's far greater than all other men that I know,
He's my Dad, he's my mentor, my friend and hero.


William Wesley Rains
July 11, 1945 - January 26, 2008
May he rest in peace